Saes B 009

Engineering Standard
SAES-B-009 2 July 2019

Fire/Blast Protection and Safety Requirements
for Offshore Production Facilities
Document Responsibility: Loss Prevention Standards Committee
Contents
1 Scope ................................................................ 2
2 Conflicts and Deviations .................................... 2
3 References ........................................................ 2
4 Definitions .......................................................... 5
5 General Design Requirements........................... 5
6 Fire Protection ................................................. 14
7 Life Safety Equipment ...................................... 28
Revision Summary................................................. 31
Previous Issue: 27 November 2016 Next Planned Update: 27 November 2021

Page 1 of 31
Contact: Ghamdi, Salem S. (ghamss1i) on phone +966-13-8728431
©Saudi Aramco 2019. All rights reserved.
Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Document Responsibility: Loss Prevention Standards Committee SAES-B-009
Issue Date: 2 July 2019 Fire/Blast Protection and Safety Requirements
Next Planned Update: 27 November 2021 for Offshore Production Facilities
1 Scope
This Standard provides mandatory requirements for the design and installation of fire
and blast protection and safety features of offshore producing facilities, including
platforms for tie-in, gas-oil separation, gas compression, accommodations, and
wellheads. Where SAES-B-009 requirements are different from other Saudi Aramco
Standards, SAES-B-009 shall govern for all offshore producing facilities. For piers,
wharves, and sea islands, refer to SAES-B-060.
2 Conflicts and Deviations
Any conflicts between this document and other applicable Mandatory Saudi Aramco
Engineering Requirements (MSAERs) shall be addressed to the EK&RD Coordinator.
Any deviation from the requirements herein shall follow internal company procedure
SAEP-302.
3 References
All referenced Specifications, Standards, Codes, Forms, Drawings, and similar material
shall be considered part of this Standard to the extent specified herein and shall be the
latest issue (including all revisions, addenda, and supplements) unless stated otherwise.
3.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure

SAEP-302 Waiver of a Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering
Requirement
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

SAES-A-105 Noise Control
SAES-A-403 Offshore Platform Drainage Systems
SAES-B-006 Fireproofing for Plants
SAES-B-014 Safety Requirements for Plant and Operations
Support Buildings
SAES-B-017 Fire Water System Design
SAES-B-018 Foam Systems
SAES-B-019 Portable, Mobile, Special Fixed Firefighting
Equipment
SAES-B-054 Access, Egress, and Materials Handling for Plant
Facilities
Page 2 of 31

SAES-B-055 Plant layout

SAES-B-058 Emergency Isolation, Shutdown, and Depressuring
SAES-B-060 Fire Protection for Piers, Wharves, and Sea Islands
SAES-B-063 Aviation Obstruction Marking and Lighting
SAES-B-067 Safety Identification and Color Coding
SAES-B-068 Electrical Area Classification
SAES-B-071 Community and Facility Wide-area Alerting Systems
SAES-F-007 System Design Criteria of Flares
SAES-J-505 Combustible Gas and Hydrogen Sulfide in Air
Detection Systems
SAES-J-601 Emergency Shutdown and Isolation Systems
SAES-K-001 Design and Installation of Heating,Ventilating and
Air Conditioning Systems
SAES-K-002 Air Conditioning Systems for Essential Operating
Facilities
SAES-L-105 Pipe Line Classes
SAES-L-108 Selection of Valves
SAES-L-132 Material Selection for Pipelines, Piping, and
Process Equipment
SAES-M-005 Design and Construction of Fixed Offshore Platforms
SAES-P-114 Power System Protection and Control
SAES-P-116 Switchgear and Control Equipment
SAES-P-123 Lighting
SAES-S-050 Sprinkler and Standpipe Systems in Buildings
SAES-T-481 In-Plant Voice Paging System
Saudi Aramco Standard Drawing

AA-036248 Off-Shore Helidecks Types 1, 2 & 3 Plans and
Elevation
General Instructions
GI-0007.021 Operating Requirements for Escape Capsules and
Life Rafts at Offshore Installations
Saudi Aramco Engineering Report
Page 3 of 31

SAER-6119 Guidelines for Removal or Replacement of Halon

1301 Fire Extinguishing Systems
3.2 Industry Standards Codes and Standards
American Petroleum Institute (API)

API 2FB Recommended Practice for the Design of Offshore
Facilities against Fire and Blast Loading, 2012
API RP 14G Recommended Practice for Fire Prevention and
Control on Fixed Open-type Offshore Production
Platforms, 2013
API RP 505 Recommended Practice for Classification of
Locations for Electrical Installations at
Petroleum Facilities Classified as Class I, Zone
0, Zone 1, and Zone 2, 2013
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

ASTM D 2859 Standard Test Method for Ignition Characteristics
of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials,
2016
ASTM E 84 Standard Test Method for Surface Burning
Characteristics of Building Materials, 2013
ASTM E 119 Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building
Construction and Materials, 2012a
International Marine Organization (IMO)

IMO IF110E International Convention for the Safety of Life At
Sea (SOLAS), 2014
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

NFPA 12 Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems, 2015
NFPA, 12A Halon 1301, Fire Extinguishing Systems, 2015
NFPA 13 Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2016
NFPA 15 Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection,
2012
NFPA 20 Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection,
2016
NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, 2016
NFPA 403 Heliports, 2014
Page 4 of 31

NFPA 2001 Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems, 2015
Underwriter Laboratories (UL)

UL 1709 Standard for Safety Rapid Rise Fire Tests of
Protection Materials for Structural Steel, 2011
U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
46 CFR Part 160, Subpart 160.151 - Inflatable Liferafts (SOLAS)
UK HSE Offshore Installations (Prevention of Fire and
Explosion, and Emergency Response)
Regulations, (2016) Regulation 15 Arrangements
for Evacuation
4 Definitions
Electronic Fire Detection (EFD): Fire detection technologies based on sensing

variations in the Infrared, Visual or Ultraviolet regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Examples are Close Circuit Television with Visual Flame Detection (CCTV/VFD),
Multi-spectrum IR (MIR), or Combination UV/IR technologies.
Escape Capsule: Totally Enclosed Motor Propelled Survival Craft (TEMPSC).

Also referred to as survival craft.
Fire-hazardous Zone: Refer to SAES-B-006.
Hydrocarbon(s): For purposes of this Standard, the word hydrocarbon(s) shall mean a
flammable liquid, a combustible liquid near or above its flash point, or a combustible
gas as defined in SAES-B-006.
Life Raft: Inflatable boats, which are intended to provide a means of personnel escape
from manned and unmanned offshore platforms.
Manned Platform: For purposes of this Standard, “manned platform” shall mean a
platform where operating or maintenance personnel are normally found for at least one
full shift each working day. Wellhead platforms are not considered to be manned
platforms. Tie-in platforms not bridge-connected to other manned platforms are not
considered to be manned platforms.
USCG: United States Coast Guard.
5 General Design Requirements
5.1 Layout, Spacing, and Access
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Unless otherwise stated herein, requirements in SAES-B-055 shall apply to

offshore production facilities. Access and egress for personnel and materials-
handling requirements for maintenance shall comply with SAES-B-054 and
SAES-M-005.
5.1.1 Control buildings or living quarters shall not be located on a platform

that has hydrocarbon equipment, piping, or storage in excess of 4 m³
(5 yards3).
5.1.2 Accommodations platforms, tie-in platforms that are bridge-connected

to other manned platforms, manned production platforms, auxiliary
platforms, and gas compression platforms that has hydrocarbon
equipment, piping, or storage in excess of 4 m³ (5 yards3) shall be
spaced at least 45 m (150 ft) from each other.
5.1.3 Utility equipment such as waste treatment, air compressors, and power
distribution equipment such as transformers shall be located in
electrically unclassified areas and at least 7.5 m (25 ft) horizontally
from hydrocarbon equipment or storage. Major power generation or
distribution equipment shall be located on an auxiliary or tie-in
platform which does not contain accommodations or hydrocarbon
process equipment.
5.1.4 Maintenance shops shall not be located in electrically classified areas.
5.1.5 Diesel engines shall be located in electrically unclassified areas and at

least 7.5 m (25 ft) horizontally from fire-hazardous equipment.
5.1.6 Diesel and slops tanks shall be constructed independent of tubulars,

bulkheads, and decks; i.e., tubulars, bulkheads, and decks shall not be
used to form the sides, tops, or bottoms of such tanks.
5.1.7 Helidecks shall be located in an electrically unclassified area (except

classification caused by a helicopter refueling hose box). The helicopter
fuel hose should be of a type recommended for aircraft fuel service and
should be equipped with a static grounding device and a “deadman” type
nozzle. The helicopter should be bonded with self-releasing or spring-
clamp bond cables. The fuel transfer pump should be equipped so that it
can be shut down from the fueling station. The installation to be in
compliance with NFPA 403, Chapter 8, Offshore Heliports.
5.1.8 Atmospheric exhausts from steam or combustion gas turbines, internal

combustion engines, or incinerators shall be located at least 3 m (10 ft)
higher than any platform or access within a horizontal distance of
7.5 m (25 ft).
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Exception:
Atmospheric exhausts from incinerators may be routed to discharge at

least 1 m over the side and at least 3 m (10 ft) below main deck of
accommodation platform on downwind side of platform, and at least
15 m from stairs, ladders, and cellar deck platforms.
Exhausts within 15 m (50 ft) horizontally of helidecks shall be

reviewed with Aviation Department.
5.1.9 Vents which can discharge hydrocarbons shall terminate at least 3 m

(10 ft) above any platform, access way, pipe rack, or equipment within
7.5 m (25 ft) horizontally of the vent.
Exception:
Slops tank vents may be routed to a point above the 100-year storm
elevation and at least 7.5 m (25 ft) crosswind or downwind of boat
landings.
5.1.10 Pump and compressor areas handling hydrocarbons shall not be

enclosed.
5.1.11 Platforms and flare structures shall not be enclosed.
5.1.12 Boat landings shall be arranged and equipped in accordance with

SAES-M-005.
5.1.13 Handrails shall be provided per SAES-B-054.
5.1.13.1 Deck edges with outboard drainage troughs and toe walls
shall be provided with handrails but with the kick plate
eliminated.
5.1.13.2 Front edges of boat landings shall have no permanent

handrails (removable handrails are permissible).
5.1.14 Helidecks shall be protected by a safety net made of 1.5 m (5 ft) wide
chain link fencing cantilevered horizontally beyond the deck perimeter,
in accordance with Standard Drawing AA-036248 and SAES-M-005.
5.1.15 For offshore GOSPs and gas compression platforms, permanent means
such as pedestal crane, monorail, or trolley shall be provided for the
disassembly and reinstallation of all major equipment, vessels, or
valves. Access to such major equipment, vessels, or valves shall be so
designed as to permit use of these means.
Cranes shall not be located in fire-hazardous zones (see 4.7.3).
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5.1.16 Laydown and equipment staging areas shall be provided and shall be
identified in the DBSP/Project Proposal.
5.1.17 For purposes of this Standard, stairways, ladders, bridges, boat

landings, helidecks, and escape capsules are considered means of
egress.
5.1.18 At least four stairways/ladders shall be provided between each

platform level, including full-size cellar decks, and the main deck of
manned platforms. Stairways and ladders to separated, to allow
alternative escape routes, taking into account prevailing wind, major
facility risks (fires, explosion, toxic vapors, etc.), evacuation/safe
refuge options as determined by the facility formal risk assessment for
escape capsules (see Section 7).
Exceptions:
a) For drilling decks and cellar decks on unmanned platforms, at least one
stairway is required between the cellar deck and the main deck. At least
one stairway shall be provided between the cellar deck of any platform
(manned or unmanned) and the boat landing. At least one stairway shall
be provided between the main deck of any platform (manned or
unmanned) and the boat landing (may be via the cellar deck).
b) For helidecks, one stairway and one ladder are required per AA-036248.
c) For living quarters, at least two separate stairways to the main deck
shall be provided.
d) Half-decks shall be connected to main decks by at least two stairways,

and no point on the half-deck may lie further than 25 m (82 ft) from a
means of egress.
5.1.19 For levels requiring four stairways or adders, at least two of those four
shall be stairways. It is preferable to have these two stairways at
opposite platform edges, with one stair positioned adjacent to the
platform bridge if the bridge happens to connect to that level.
5.1.20 At least one set of stairways and landings leading from the boat
landing and the helideck to the accommodations deck (sick bay deck)
on manned platforms shall be designed to permit easy conveyance of
an injured or sick man in a stretcher or Stokes litter (SAP Material
No. 1000128490). For this set of stairways, stair width shall be at least
1.22 m (4 ft) and landings shall be at least 2.44 m (8 ft) wide by 2.44 m
(8 ft) long.
If the helideck is on a manned platform other than the accommodations

platform, a set of stairs and landings shall connect the helideck with the
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main deck (i.e., the deck which is bridge-connected to the

accommodations platform).
5.1.21 All pathways providing access to equipment platform ladders, controls,

emergency isolation valves, fire-fighting equipment, and safety
equipment, shall have a minimum clear width of 1.22 m (4 ft) and have
minimum head room of 2.03 m (6 ft, 8 in). Minimum vertical clearance
above stair treads shall be 2.03 m (6 ft, 8 in).
5.1.21.1 Minimum effective width of bridge walkways and any

connecting stairways shall be 1.22 m (4 ft).
5.1.21.2 Minimum effective width of stairways shall be 760 mm,

(2 ft, 6 in) except as required by 5.1.20 and 5.1.21.1.
5.1.22 Line-of-sight escape shall be incorporated into platform design and

deck layouts to the extent practical.
5.1.23 Escape routes shall be at least 1.22 m (4 ft) wide and clearly marked on
decks.
5.2 Lighting
5.2.1 Lighting for offshore platforms shall meet SAES-P-123.

Exception:
On unmanned platforms, lighting is recommended. However, final

decision shall rest with the Proponent Operating Department, except
for mandatory navigation and aviation lighting (see paragraph 6.10).
5.2.2 Circuit breakers for lighting fixtures in process areas shall be installed
locally.
5.2.3 Local lighting shall be provided for offshore platform walkways and
stairways.
5.2.4 Emergency lighting of at least 55 (5 footcandles) lux at floor level shall

be provided for interior and exterior exits routes and emergency muster
points.
5.2.5 Where essential activities are expected to continue during failure of the
normal lighting inside buildings, such as inside control rooms and
switchgear rooms, emergency illumination of at least 110 lux
(10 footcandles) at 760 mm (2 ft, 6 in) above the floor shall be
provided.
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5.2.6 Normal and emergency lighting of at least 220 lux (20 footcandles)
shall be provided for the following:
a) Outside emergency equipment such as emergency telephones,
shutdown and emergency isolation stations, firewater pump
areas, central foam concentrate mixing area, fire control panels,
and standby generators.
b) Evacuation assembly areas at escape capsules and boat landings.
Lighting at helidecks shall comply with Standard Drawing
AA-036248.
5.3 Emergency Shutdown (ESD) Systems and Isolation Valves
Design of ESD and emergency isolation systems shall meet the requirements of
SAES-B-058 and SAES-J-601 except as noted below:
5.3.1 Plot Limits Isolation
For offshore production facilities, the term “plot-limits” isolation

(see SAES-B-058) shall be construed to mean isolation of the entire
platform complex. Thus, for example, all lines entering or leaving a
platform complex shall have emergency isolation valves (EIVs)
located on the tie-in platform as follows:
a) EIVs shall be provided on the downstream side of the production
header; on the downstream side of the test-trap header (if any);
and on outgoing hydrocarbon lines.
b) For maintenance purposes, any hydrocarbon line which goes
from one platform to another shall have a manual block valve on
the upstream platform. An EIV may serve as a maintenance
valve. Each platform header in blowdown, flare, gravity sewer,
or hydrocarbon (pressure) sewer service shall be equipped with a
car-sealed-open (CSO) manual block valve, located at platform
edge, to permit maintenance isolation from the main header.
Exception:
EIVs are not required for unmanned platforms that are not
bridge-connected to manned platforms.
5.3.2 ESD Manual Activation Devices
At least one manual device for actuation of the ESD system shall be
placed on each main access of each hydrocarbon platform as well as at
the helideck, at the tops of stairways to boat landings, and at, or along
the escape path to, escape capsule assembly areas.
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5.3.3 Emergency Systems
Process vessels shall have provision for emergency vapor

depressurization system designed per the requirements of SAES-B-058.
5.3.4 Gas Detection Systems
Combustible gas detection systems shall be evaluated on a case-by-case

basis per SAES-J-505. As a minimum, a combustible gas detector shall
be installed inside the air intake for any control and pressurized building
and inside each combustion gas turbine control cab. Air intakes to
buildings (including accommodations) which could be exposed
hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas in concentrations of 30 ppm or greater shall
be provided with H2S detectors. Toxic gas dispersion analysis shall be
carried for Tie-in Platform, Production Platform, etc., handing Hydrogen
Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide gas detectors shall be installed on offshore
production platforms where the concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas
reach an atmospheric concentration of 30 parts per million (ppm).
The set points of these air intake gas detectors and the closing of the intake
air shall be in accordance with SAES-J-505. Specification and
installation shall be in accordance with SAES-J-505.
5.4 Drainage and Sewer Systems
Drainage and oily water sewer systems shall be designed in accordance with
SAES-A-403.
5.5 Electrical Area Classification
5.5.1 Electrical area classification for unmanned offshore platforms shall be

per API RP 505. For manned platforms, area classification shall
comply with SAES-B-068 with the following additions and exceptions.
5.5.2 Any release source giving rise to a Class I, Zone 2 area between solid
decks shall cause the entire space between the two decks to be
classified Class I, Zone 2. In addition, the space within 3 m (10 ft) of
any drainage trough shall be Class I, Zone 2.
Any release source giving rise to a Class I, Zone 1 area between solid
decks shall cause the entire space between the two decks beyond the
Zone 1 area to be classified Class I, Zone 2.
Any hydrocarbon release source or Zone 1 area boundary within 15 m

(50 ft) of deck's edge shall require the space within 3 m (10 ft) of that
portion of the deck edge lying within a 15 m (50 ft) horizontal radius of
the release source or Zone 1 boundary to be classified Class I, Zone 2.
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Exception:
Platforms that have no production piping or processing (e.g.,

accommodations or auxiliary platforms) may classify individual sources
rather than the entire space between decks.
5.5.3 No access hatches, ladders, or other unsealed openings shall penetrate

a deck that is above a fire-hazardous zone or a deck which constitutes a
physical barrier between different electrical area classifications.
Exceptions:
1) An access hatch or opening is permissible if the hatch or opening is

sealed at all times during which either of the two decks (i.e., the
penetrated deck and the deck below) is in operation, or
2) An unsealed access hatch or opening is permissible if the area

classification of the deck below is extended up through the access or
opening to a height of 3 m (10 ft) above the penetrated deck and for 3 m
(10 ft) horizontally around the perimeter of the access or opening.
5.5.4 Where electrically classified areas exist above open grating decks,
those classified areas shall be projected down through the structure to
the next lowest solid deck.
5.6 Building Construction
5.6.1 On platforms handling hydrocarbons, buildings shall meet SAES-B-014.

In addition, they shall have two-hour fire-rated external walls and roof
per UL 1709, (or per an equivalent internationally recognized testing
standard) with steel exterior.
Where areas exist that may produce an explosion/blast hazards, these

areas are to be evaluated and protected per API 2FB.
5.6.2 On nonhydrocarbon platforms, buildings shall be of noncombustible

material and shall have one-hour fire-rated exterior walls, per ASTM
E119, (or per an equivalent internationally recognized testing
standard), with steel exterior.
5.6.3 Interior finish materials shall be limited to materials with the following
fire hazard classifications (or per an equivalent internationally
recognized testing standard):
a) ASTM Standard E-84, Flame spread rating of 25 or less
b) ASTM Standard E-84, Smoke developed rating of 75 or less
c) Flooring materials to meet the ignition resistance of ASTM D2859.
No carpeting is allowed.
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5.6.4 Air-conditioning, pressurization, and ventilation shall comply with

SAES-K-001 and SAES-K-002. All buildings shall be air-conditioned
and, in the absence of more stringent requirements, shall have make-up
air in at least the amount required by SAES-K-001. Air shall be drawn
from an unclassified area.
5.7 Noise Control
Requirements of SAES-A-105 shall be met.
5.8 Color-Coding
Requirements of SAES-B-067 shall be met.
5.9 Public Address Systems and Alarm Stations
Alarm and public address systems shall be provided for all manned offshore
platform complexes, with detailed design subject to approval by the Proponent
Operating Department.
5.9.1 A public address system complying with the requirements of

SAES-T-481 and SAES-B-071 shall be provided.
5.9.2 Audible and visible alarms shall be activated by a single button in the
main control room.
5.9.3 Special alarm stations housed in weatherproof (NEMA 4X) boxes

made of 316L stainless steel shall be installed at stairways and bridges.
Each box shall contain colored pull buttons to give the alarm for fire
(red button), ESD (red button), and man overboard (black button).
Each box shall contain colored lights to indicate LEL (blue), abandon
platform (red), fire (amber), man overboard (green), and, where
applicable, H2S (blue).
5.10 Flare System
5.10.1 Flare system design shall meet SAES-F-007.
5.10.2 Flares shall be equipped with ignitor systems featuring pilots,

thermocouples, and flame-out detection devices. Flame-out detection
devices shall use 2-out-of-3 voting to sound a flame-out alarm in the
control room.
5.11 Marine Aids to Navigation and Aviation Obstruction Marking
5.11.1 Marine navigation lights and horns shall be provided in accordance

with the requirements of SAES-M-005.
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5.11.2 Offshore structures shall be provided with aviation obstruction lighting

in compliance with SAES-B-063.
6 Fire Protection
6.1 Fireproofing
The provisions of SAES-B-006 shall be followed except as modified below.
6.1.1 Fireproofing is not required for pile templates, platform jackets, and
platform legs. Load-bearing steel supporting a deck subject to fire
exposure from hydrocarbon spills or hydrocarbon gas releases on a
lower deck shall be fireproofed, unless spray protection is provided on
both the supported deck (either above or below the deck) and the deck
below.
6.1.2 The definition of fire-hazardous zone is the same as stated in

SAES-B-006 except that, in the case in which a solid deck is over a
fire-hazardous zone, the fire-hazardous zone shall extend up to, and
include the bottom of, said solid deck.
6.1.3 Structural steel fireproofing shall provide a fire resistance rating of at

least two hours per UL 1709 (or per an equivalent internationally
recognized testing standard) test procedures.
6.1.4 Cementitious types of fireproofing materials shall not be used for

fireproofing on new offshore facilities. Use of cementitious
fireproofing to repair fireproofing on existing facilities is permissible,
in which case top-coating is required to prevent moisture incursion.
6.1.5 Application of intumescent mastics or other proprietary fireproofing

shall be performed only by manufacturer-trained and certified
applicators.
6.1.6 Application shall be made in strict accordance with the manufacturer's

guidelines regarding ambient temperature, storage temperature,
materials, proportioning, and mixing.
6.2 Firewater Supply and Distribution System
Firewater system design shall meet SAES-B-017. Where requirements in this

section differ from those in SAES-B-017, SAES-B-009 shall govern.
Requirements for electrical equipment, electrical power supply feeders, and
electrical protection shall meet SAES-P-114 and SAES-P-116.
Page 14 of 31

All fire water systems shall be designed and installed under the supervision of a
registered professional engineer in the specialty of fire protection engineering
with at least five years of experience in the design of fire water systems.
Design drawings and hydraulic calculations shall be submitted according to
Saudi Aramco procedures for plan and equipment submittals.
Drawings and the supporting hydraulic design study calculations of all fire
protection systems shall be submitted for review. Hydraulic calculations shall
be performed using only software that complies with requirements and
calculations of NFPA 13. Software to be used shall be the latest version.
Fire protection drawings shall indicate coverage, water supply data including
water flow rates, fire protection system demands, available flow and pressure,
available duration, and recent water supply or pump test data.
All fire protection equipment and appurtenances shall be purchased as specified

in the Saudi Aramco materials system.
6.2.1 Total installed firewater pumping capacity, not counting standby

capacity, shall be no less than that required by the single greatest
platform demand, including all fire protection systems on all decks of
that platform.
6.2.2 A fixed firewater/foam system shall be provided for each bridge-

connected platform of a multiplatform complex.
Exception:
A firewater system is not required for wellhead or tie-in platforms that

are not bridge-connected to accommodations or processing platforms.
Tie-in platforms bridge-connected only to wellhead platforms do not
require firewater systems.
6.2.3 The system shall be supplied by either submersible or shaft driven

pumps taking suction from the sea.
6.2.4 The firewater system shall be continuously pressurized by means

of two jockey pumps (one normally operating and one installed
100-percent spare).
6.2.4.1 Jockey pumps shall be electrically-driven pumps capable of

developing at least 19 L/s at 1035 kPa (300 gpm at 150 psi).
6.2.4.2 Where the firewater system supplies water to the utility

water system, a third jockey pump shall be provided.
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6.2.5 The firewater system capacity design basis for the platform complex
shall be furnished by two or more electric pumps of equal size.
6.2.5.1 Additionally, backup fire pump capacity shall be provided

in accordance with the following:
6.2.5.1.1 If power to the platform complex is supplied by

from the same power source (i.e., would be
subject to single point failure), standby diesel-
driven pumping capacity equal to at least the
largest electric fire pump is required.
6.2.5.1.2 If power to the platform complex is supplied by

means of a single cable, standby diesel-driven
pumping capacity shall meet SAES-B-017.
6.2.5.1.3 At least one diesel-driven fire pump must be

located on the accommodations platform or on
an adjacent nonhydrocarbon (excluding day
tanks, paragraph 5.1.1) auxiliary platform.
6.2.5.2 Fire pumps shall meet design flow requirements at rated

flow and pressure.
6.2.5.3 Fire pumps and jockey pumps shall have a constantly rising
curve and shall furnish not less than 150% of rated capacity
at a total head of not less than 65% of the total rated head.
The total shutoff head shall not exceed 140% of total rated
head for any type of pump.
6.2.5.4 Firewater system connection(s) shall be provided to permit

water to be supplied by a boat for fire system maintenance.
Connection(s) shall be sized to provide at least half the
design firewater requirement for the platform complex,
assuming a boat pump discharge pressure of 1030 kPa
(150 psig). Connection(s) shall terminate with check
valves(s) and blind flange(s) at an access platform large
enough to permit three people to maneuver and connect
adapters and five-inch hoses from a boat.
6.2.5.5 Fire pump installations shall comply with the requirements

of NFPA 20 with the following modifications:
A) Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards and SAMSSs
shall be followed in:
Page 16 of 31

1) selecting pressure gauges;

2) materials selection, welding, and hydrotesting of
piping;
3) materials selection and hydrotesting of firewater
pumps;
4) specification of electric motor enclosures.
B) A metering device for testing pump capacity shall be
provided in the piping associated with firewater
system pressure regulation (see 4.8.5.7 below).
Where an orifice installation is used, it shall be so
located as to permit easy removal of the orifice plate.
C) Capacities of pressure maintenance (jockey) pumps
shall be as specified in 4.8.4.1 above.
D) Fire pump curve shall be submitted as part of firewater
design documentation.
E) Screening, enclosing, or housing of pumps is not
required.
F) A representative of the Chief Fire Prevention Engineer
is required to be present to witness field tests.
G) The “point of constant attendance” for alarm and signal
devices shall be the platform complex control room.
H) The electrical capacity shall be increased if necessary
to ensure that both power lines and switchgear
equipment have sufficient capacity to satisfy the
overload power requirement implied in subparagraph
(K) immediately following.
I) Location of controllers within sight of motors is not
required.
J) Pumps with electric motor drivers shall start before
pumps with diesel engine drivers.
K) Day tank fuel capacity sufficient for eight hours of
continuous operation at full load shall be provided.
6.2.5.6 Firewater system pressure regulation shall be provided by

two pressure regulating valves, discharging to the sea.
One valve shall be sized for full flow of one jockey pump.
Page 17 of 31

The other valve shall be sized for full flow of one main
firewater pump. The piping for the larger pressure
regulating valve shall have provision for a temporary flow
measuring device for testing the main firewater pumps.
Exception:
If the pressure regulating valve for the main firewater pumps

is capable of satisfactorily controlling firewater pressure with
only a jockey pump in operation, a separate pressure
regulating valve for the jockey pumps is not required.
6.2.6 The firewater system piping shall be sized to supply the largest single
risk area while maintaining 690 kPa (100 psi) at the hydraulically most
remote monitor nozzle or hydrant in that risk area. Also, see paragraph
6.5.4.
6.2.6.1 Firewater piping shall be cement-lined steel, 90-10 copper-

nickel, or 254 SMO stainless steel per SAES-L-105 and
SAES-L-132. RTR pipe shall not be used for offshore
firewater systems.
6.2.6.2 Valve materials shall be compatible with piping materials

and shall comply with SAES-L-108.
6.2.6.3 A looped main shall be provided for each platform having an

edge length of over 45 m (150 ft). The looped main shall be
located at or below the lowest solid deck level. Each looped
main shall be supplied by firewater in a manner such that
isolation of a single-component failure will result in loss of
no more than 50% of the required fire water flow to the
looped main.
Exception:
The automatically-actuated deluge valve of each deluge-

type water spray system shall be supplied from two ring
main sections, each of which can, after isolation of one
section from the other, deliver 100% of the firewater
requirement of that water spray system.
6.2.6.4 Firewater to fire protection devices (hose reels, deluge

systems, monitors, etc.) on upper decks may be provided
through risers. Risers to utilize structural features to
provide protection from process hazards.
6.2.6.5 A riser may supply more than one deck.
Page 18 of 31

6.2.6.6 Sectionalizing valves shall be provided such that not more

than five fire protection devices connected to the firewater
system, excluding spray deluge valves, are put out of
service when isolating a single break.
6.2.6.7 Sectionalizing valve handwheels shall be accessible from

deck level and located at a convenient operating height.
Handwheels or their extensions shall not obstruct walkways
or equipment access ways. Chain handwheels are prohibited.
6.2.6.8 Flanged valves shall be provided at the ends of firewater

loops to allow for sectionalized flushing at twice the normal
service flow upon completion of construction and at
periodic intervals thereafter.
6.2.7 A chlorination, hypochlorination, or other system shall be provided to

prevent the growth of marine organisms in pump suctions (or in pump
caissons) and piping systems susceptible to their growth.
Where chlorination of piping systems is required, a continuous

discharge overboard shall be maintained from a remote portion of the
firewater loop, to allow complete chlorination refreshment of the
entire, wet portion, of the fire water system network within 96 hours.
6.3 Fixed Fire Protection Systems
Fixed fire protection systems shall be provided as specified except that they are
not required for those wellhead or tie-in platforms exempted in paragraph 6.8.2.
6.3.1 At least one hydrant or other valved outlet acceptable to the Proponent
Operating Department shall be installed near each bridge of a bridge-
connected deck, for hydrotest water and emergency firewater back-up.
6.3.2 Hose reel protection shall be provided for all areas. Hose reels
protecting areas subject to hydrocarbon spills, including helidecks,
shall be capable of discharging either water or foam, with a push
button mounted by each hose reel to start the foam concentrate pump.
6.3.3 Fixed fire protection is required for rotating equipment handling

flammable materials and for deck areas subject to a hydrocarbon spill.
6.3.3.1 For pumps handling hydrocarbons, this protection shall be

provided by AFFF foam solution discharged by pre-aimed
nozzles or fixed overhead spray systems (see paragraph 4.10).
Page 19 of 31

6.3.3.2 For compressors handling hydrocarbons, protection shall be

by pre-aimed nozzles or fixed overhead spray systems
discharging water per 4.11.5.4 unless foam is necessitated by
paragraph 4.9.6.
6.3.4 For deck spray protection requirements, see paragraph 4.10.
6.3.5 For vessels (see paragraph 4.11), fixed fire protection in the form of
deluge-type water spray systems is required if both the conditions in
and 4.9.5.2 exist:
6.3.5.1 Vessel is subject to an exposure fire which would, if not

spray-protected, require fireproofing of supports per
paragraph 4.7.
6.3.5.2 Vessel cannot be depressurized to a pressure less than 50%

of design pressure within two minutes of actuation of the
plant ESD system.
6.3.5.3 Fixed protection of vessels by pre-aimed monitors fed

through automatically actuated valves in the manner
described for deluge-type water spray systems is acceptable
in lieu of water spray systems.
6.3.5.4 Vessels subject to fire exposure which do not require fixed

fire protection shall, as a minimum, have protection from
ordinary monitors (need not be pre-aimed or automatically
fed).
6.3.6 Where rundown from deluge-type pre-aimed monitors or water spray

systems will merge with foam protection for deck areas subject to
hydrocarbon spills, discharge from the monitor/water spray system
shall be AFFF foam solution.
6.3.7 Closed-head automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided for

accommodations buildings (see paragraph 4.12).
6.3.8 Electronic fire detection and/or smoke detection systems shall be

provided for all buildings or sections of buildings.
6.3.9 Actuation of individual fixed foam/water spray systems shall be as

specified below. Actuation of fixed foam/water spray systems for an
entire platform shall be by manual push buttons.
6.3.9.1 Detection shall be by EFD or fusible-plug systems.

Fusible plug pneumatic systems are acceptable for
Page 20 of 31

compressor skids only. Simple pneumatic (plastic) tube

systems are not acceptable.
6.3.9.2 Automatic actuation of individual fixed foam/water spray

systems shall be by signals from two detectors which are in
the same area but which are wired into separate detection
circuits. Sprays so actuated shall cover a radius of at least
15 m (50 ft) from the actuating detectors.
6.3.10 Foam spray (preferred) or dry-chemical fixed protection systems shall

be provided for the protection of hoods, ducts, and cooking surfaces in
galley areas.
6.3.11 Fixed fire protection is not required for under floor areas of control
rooms and computer rooms in new facilities designed to meet SAES-
B-014.
Commentary Note:
For existing underfloor protection of control rooms and computer rooms

where massed cables are present, see SAER-6119 for guidance.
6.3.12 Pre-engineered fire protection systems provided by the manufacturers

of combustion gas turbines and power generators shall comply with
SAES-B-019 and shall be subject to Saudi Aramco acceptance tests.
6.3.13 Operating instructions shall be posted at the control station for each
automatic system. All instructions shall be in Arabic and English.
6.3.14 Written instructions, in English and preferably also in Arabic, for

maintaining and periodically checking each automatic system shall be
provided to the proponent's Maintenance Manager.
6.3.15 Major projects shall provide, at Project Proposal stage, an isometric

diagram for each platform showing firewater and foam piping,
sectionalizing and branch valves, foam tanks and proportioners,
hydrants, monitors, deluge and sprinkler systems, hose reels, fire boat
connections, and firewater and jockey pumps. Diagrams shall be to
scale and shall identify major structures and major pieces of process
equipment.
6.4 Fixed Foam Protection
6.4.1 One or more central AFFF foam concentrate storage and distribution
systems shall be provided for each offshore complex. Foam system
design shall meet SAES-B-018. This system shall be sized to provide
Page 21 of 31

foam concentrate for a period of at least 30 minutes to all users on the

platform of greatest demand.
6.4.1.1 AFFF foam concentrate shall be stored in one or more

tanks. Each tank shall be equipped with an expansion
dome, pressure-vacuum vent, drain valve, bulk fill
connection, and all necessary supply and return pipe
connections to make a working system. Tanks larger than
1,900 L (500 gal) shall have a manway so that the tank can
be entered for cleaning.
6.4.1.2 Foam concentrate pumps shall be rotary gear pumps

capable of injecting the specified concentrate quantities up
to full flow at the operating pressures of the main fire
pumps at those respective flows.
6.4.1.3 An installed spare concentrate pump capable of delivering

100% of required flow shall be provided.
6.4.1.4 Foam concentrate pumps shall be sized to deliver foam

concentrate through the dry distribution piping system to
the most remote user within two minutes.
6.4.1.5 A pressure-regulating valve shall be provided on the foam

concentrate pump discharge manifold with return to the
foam concentrate storage tank. The function of this valve
shall be to maintain a constant supply pressure in the foam
concentrate distribution piping system.
6.4.2 Foam concentrate shall be provided to all users via a normally dry
foam concentrate distribution piping system.
6.4.2.1 The foam concentrate distribution piping system shall

consist of a single pipe header routed from the foam
concentrate pump discharge manifold to each platform
having a foam user requirement (except helideck as
described below).
6.4.2.2 An automatic valve shall be provided near the take-off from

the foam concentrate header to each platform using foam
concentrate.
6.4.2.2.1 The actuation of this automatic valve shall be

by means of the detection system for fixed
protection on that platform.
Page 22 of 31

6.4.2.2.2 In addition, each automatic valve shall be

operable by means of a local push button at
each valve.
6.4.2.2.3 Buttons to activate all the foam/water spray

systems on a platform shall be provided in the
control room and on a panel located on an
adjacent platform at a spot having a clear view
of the protected platform.
6.4.2.3 The foam concentrate distribution piping system shall be

designed to allow draining of the piping. Provision shall be
made to allow flushing with fresh water following use or
testing.
6.4.3 Foam concentrate shall be injected into firewater flow at each user or
group of users through an in-line balanced pressure proportioner.
6.4.4 Design details for fixed foam/water spray systems, monitors, and hose
reels are as follows:
6.4.4.1 Spray protection for deck areas subject to hydrocarbon

spills shall be designed to apply foam solution at a rate of at
least 0.10 L/(m²s) (0.15 gpm/ft²).
Exception:
Where fixed foam monitors/spray systems provide

coverage to vessels above a deck area subject to
hydrocarbon spills, 50% of the vessel coverage rate may
be used to satisfy deck foam rate requirements.
6.4.4.2 Protection for pumps handling flammable liquids shall be

applied at a foam solution rate of at least 0.34 L/(m²s)
(0.50 gpm/ft²) over an envelope extending 0.6 m (2 ft) from
the periphery of the casing, seals, and pump suction and
discharge flanges.
6.4.4.3 Monitors shall meet SAES-B-017.
6.4.4.4 Water-motor-powered oscillating monitors shall not be

utilized.
6.4.4.5 In addition, foam/water spray systems shall be designed and

installed as noted in paragraph 6.11 below.
Page 23 of 31

6.4.5 Where the helideck constitutes the only foam user on a platform, the
system shall meet SAES-B-019.
6.5 Deluge Type Water Spray Systems
Deluge-type water spray systems shall be designed and installed per NFPA 15
with the following modifications:
6.5.1 Piping materials shall be per SAES-L-105 and SAES-L-132 except that
for piping 100 mm (4 in) and smaller only 90-10 Copper Nickel Alloy
C70600 or 254 SMO stainless steel shall be used. RTR pipe shall not
be used for offshore water spray systems.
6.5.2 Individual water spray systems shall be limited in capacity 158 L/s
(2500 gpm).
6.5.3 Nozzles shall have a minimum orifice size of 10 mm (0.4 in).
6.5.4 Minimum design pressure for the hydraulically most remote head shall
be not less than 138 kPa (20 psig). This requirement is subordinate to
the requirement in 6.8.6.
6.5.5 Water spray systems shall be hydraulically balanced to maintain a

water distribution rate within 15% of design density. Calculation
procedures shall be per NFPA 15.
6.5.5.1 For horizontal vessels, spray protection of at least

0.17 L/(m²s) (0.25 gpm/ft²) shall be provided for the upper
half of the vessel surface area, normally with one row of
sprays running horizontally along each side of the upper part
of the vessel in order to provide good vapor space coverage.
Water rundown of more than 3.7 m (12 ft, 2 in), shall not be
assumed; hence, additional rows of spray nozzles shall be
installed to protect any vessel vapor space that is below
3.7 m (12 ft, 2 in), measured circumferentially from the top
of the vessel.
6.5.5.2 For vertical vessels, spray protection of at least 0.17 L/(m²s)

(0.25 gpm/ft²) shall be provided, with sprays arranged in
rings to provide coverage to the top head and upper shell.
Water rundown shall not be assumed; hence, additional rings
of spray nozzles shall be installed to protect the vessel.
Vessel skirts shall be either fireproofed or spray-protected.
Page 24 of 31

6.5.5.3 Production manifolds and scraper launchers/receivers

located above deck shall have spray protection of at least
0.34 L/(m²s) (0.5 gpm/ft²), based on projected area.
6.5.5.4 Compressor skids shall have spray protection of at least

0.34 L/(m²s) (0.5 gpm/ft²).
6.5.5.5 Spray nozzle connections shall branch from the upper part
of the supply header between the ten o'clock and two
o'clock position in order to avoid plugging of nozzles.
6.5.5.6 The distance between a spray nozzle and the protected

surface shall not exceed 1 m (3 ft 3 in.).
6.5.6 Detection systems for outdoor water spray systems shall be per
paragraph 4.9.9.1.
6.5.7 Deluge-type water spray systems shall be capable of remote manual

actuation from the control room as well as from platform manual
actuation devices. Remote shut-off capability is prohibited: only local
shut-off of a water spray system is allowed.
6.6 Automatic Sprinkler Protection:
6.6.1 Automatic sprinkler protection for interiors of accommodations

buildings and enclosures shall be designed and installed per
SAES-S-050, with the following modifications.
6.6.1.1 Instruction charts describing operation and proper

maintenance of sprinkler devices shall be provided to the
proponent's Maintenance Manager.
6.6.1.2 Piping shall be per SAES-L-105, SAES-L-132, and

SAES-S-050, except that only 90-10 Copper Nickel Alloy
C70600 or 254 SMO stainless steel may be used.
6.6.1.3 Sprinklers shall have a temperature rating of at least 100°C

(212oF).
6.6.1.4 Systems for protection of quarters areas shall be based on a

Light Hazard Pipe Schedule per NFPA 13 or hydraulically
designed to deliver a minimum density of 0.068 L/(m²s)
(0.1 gpm/ft²) over a 140 m² area (1,507 ft2).
6.6.1.5 Systems for the protection of all other buildings or

enclosures shall be designed on the basis of an Ordinary
Page 25 of 31

Hazard Pipe Schedule Group 2 or hydraulically designed to

deliver a minimum density of 0.129 L/(m²s) (0.19 gpm/ft²)
over a maximum 280 m² area (3,014 ft2).
6.6.1.6 The sprinkler system alarm check valve shall be tied

electrically to the building fire alarm system and to the
master fire alarm panel (MFAP) in the main control room.
6.6.2 For additional protection of building interiors, a live hose reel shall be
provided outside each entrance.
6.6.3 Operational acceptance tests shall be witnessed by the Chief Fire

Prevention Engineer or his representative.
6.7 Clean Agent Systems
The design and installation of clean agent systems shall comply with the
requirements in SAES-B-014 with the following modifications:
6.7.1 Detection shall be by smoke detectors or other appropriate EFD

arranged on cross-zoned or voting-type circuitry.
6.7.1.1 Detection circuits shall be arranged such that, upon

actuation of a single detector, a pre-alarm will sound.
Upon actuation of a second detector, a second and different
tone alarm shall sound, and a thirty-second timer shall start.
During this timed period, an operator can investigate the
cause of the alarm. In event the alarm is spurious or the fire
is within the control of portable extinguishers, the operator
shall be able to abort the discharge of the clean agent
system by pressing and holding an abort button. Release of
this button before the alarm is reset shall cause the timer to
restart its 30-second countdown.
6.7.1.2 The abort button shall be clearly labeled as to its function,

in both Arabic and English.
6.7.2 Agent cylinders shall be equipped with valve-type actuation heads.

Actuation by cutter head against a frangible disc or by explosive squib
is prohibited.
6.7.3 All systems shall be provided with a piped-in-place 100% reserve

clean agent supply.
6.7.4 The agent cylinder storage rack shall be arranged to allow the use of a
beam-type weighing scale. A suitable scale shall be provided with
Page 26 of 31

each system. Equivalent agent verification methods may be provided

if acceptable to the Proponent Operating Department.
6.7.5 All systems shall be designed to provide a minimum extinguishing

concentration, with clean agent discharge in accordance with the
requirements of NFPA 12, 12A, or 2001.
6.7.6 Clean Agent shall be supplied from cylinders connected to a supply

piping manifold. Modular units are not acceptable.
6.7.7 The nominal capacity of an agent cylinder shall not exceed 85 kg

(188 lbs) gross weight.
6.7.8 An agent release signal shall cause automatic shutdown of any local
air-handling system. Restart of the air-handling system shall be
manual only.
6.7.9 Operational acceptance tests shall be witnessed by the Chief Fire

Prevention Engineer or his representative.
6.8 Dry Chemical Protection Systems:
Dry chemical systems shall be designed and installed per SAES-B-019 with the
following modifications:
6.8.1 Pre-engineered systems shall be installed in compliance with the

manufacturer's instructions.
6.8.2 Dry chemical storage cylinders having gross weights of more than
68 kg shall be capable of being recharged in the field.
6.9 Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Fire detection and alarm systems for manned platform complexes shall be
designed and installed in compliance with SAES-B-014 and NFPA 72 with the
following modifications:
6.9.1 Written instructions for periodic maintenance and testing of alarm

systems shall be provided to the proponent's Maintenance Manager.
6.9.2 Each platform shall be provided with a Master Fire Alarm Panel
(MFAP) in the main control room. The MFAP shall house all heat,
fire, and smoke detector controllers for the platform complex and shall
include a conventional fire alarm panel to perform all necessary logic
functions required to operate automatic systems. Fire detection and
alarm systems shall sound an alarm locally and on the MFAP.
Page 27 of 31

6.9.3 Each fire detection and alarm system shall have either a tie to the UPS
or an independent battery power supply capable of maintaining the
system in operation for at least 8 hours, with battery chargers backed
up by an emergency generator.
6.9.4 Fire detection and alarm systems shall be installed in all buildings and
enclosures per 6.3.8.
6.9.4.1 Each building/enclosure fire detection and alarm system

shall consist of a Local Fire Control Panel (LFCP) to which
one or more zones of heat or smoke detectors, manual pull
stations, and alarm bells or horns are connected.
6.9.4.2 Multistory buildings shall be subdivided to provide a zone

of detection per floor.
6.9.4.3 A trouble alarm shall be provided on each LFCP and

remotely on the main control room MFAP.
6.9.4.4 A graphic panel showing zone and detector locations shall

be provided and this information shall be shown on the
DCS, at a continuously manned location.
6.10 Portable Fire Extinguishers:
Requirements in this section apply only to manned platforms. Work parties

visiting unmanned platforms shall provide their own portable fire-fighting
apparatus.
6.10.1 Portable extinguishers shall be provided in compliance with

SAES-B-019 and in accordance with requirements identified in the
Project Proposal.
6.10.2 At least one wheeled 56.7 kg (125 lb) dry chemical extinguisher shall
be located within 23 m (75 ft) of major pumps and compressors
handling hydrocarbon materials.
6.10.3 At least four 12.2 kg (27 lb) dry chemical extinguishers shall be
installed on the first landing below the helideck. One wheeled 56.7 kg
(125 lb) dry chemical extinguisher shall be provided on the landing of
refueling helidecks.
7 Life Safety Equipment
7.1 Lifesaving Appliances
Page 28 of 31

7.1.1 Each manned platform shall be provided with at least two USCG (or
equal) approved life rafts holding at least six men. On the
accommodations platform, life rafts (minimum of two) shall be
provided in sufficient number to handle the difference between the
maximum manpower complement (bed capacity) and the seating
capacity of accommodations platform escape capsules.
Each life raft shall be equipped with a painter of a length not less than
three times the distance from the deck where the life raft is stowed to
the low water line. This painter shall not be less than 13 mm (0.5 in) in
diameter and equivalent in strength to manila rope not less than 70 mm
(2.75 in) in diameter.
Each life raft shall be equipped with a painter of a length not less than
three times the distance from the deck where the life raft is stowed to
the low water line. This painter shall not be less than 13 mm (0.5 in) in
diameter and equivalent in strength to manila rope not less than 70 mm
(2.75 in) in diameter.
7.1.2 Each manned platform shall be provided with an approved life jacket
(SAP Material No 1000131028) for each person on the platform, plus
20% extra.
7.1.2.1 Each life jacket shall have a light securely attached to the
front shoulder area.
7.1.2.2 Each life jacket shall have at least 200 cm² (31 in2) of
reflective material on each of its reversible sides as close to
the shoulder area as possible.
7.1.2.3 Life jackets stored outside shall be housed in fiberglass or

316L stainless steel storage cabinets. Each cabinet shall be
sized to hold at least six life jackets, shall be furnished with
legs to raise it above deck level, and shall have a quick-
opening door of sufficient size to allow easy access to the
life jackets.
7.1.2.4 Life jacket cabinets shall be painted orange and labeled

“LIFE JACKETS” in both Arabic and English.
7.1.3 Each manned platform shall have at least four approved ring life buoys
(SAP Material No 1000132684). One ring life buoy shall be installed
on each side of a manned platform in an accessible place, and one ring
life buoy shall be installed at the midway point of each bridge.
Page 29 of 31

Each ring life buoy shall be equipped with an approved automatic

electric water light. The water light shall be attached to the ring life
buoy with a 1 to 2 m (4 to 8 ft) lanyard. The water light shall be
mounted on a bracket adjacent to the ring life buoy such that when the
ring life buoy is cast loose, the water light will pull free of the bracket.
7.1.4 Each manned platform shall be provided with a minimum escape

capsules capacity for 150% of the installation complement.
In accordance with HSE Regulation 15. In addition the escape
capsules readily accessible from the temporary refuge should have
sufficient capacity for all on board. The need for additional escape
capsules should be determined by formal risk assessment. They may
be needed where personnel may work, congregate or be trapped.
Escape capsules are to meet the requirements of IMO MODU Code

Chapter 10.3.4, 10.3.5 and 10.3.6 and GI-0007.021. Locations and
number of escape capsules shall be identified at Project Proposal stage
and in line with IMO MODU Code Chapter 10 as applicable.
7.1.5 On each manned platform a Stokes litter (SAP Material

No 1000128490), or other suitable safety litter capable of being
safely hoisted with an injured person, shall be provided and kept
in an accessible place.
7.1.6 On each manned platform an industrial-type first aid kit (SAP Material
No 1000132512) shall be provided. It shall be maintained in the
custody of the person in charge of the platform.
7.1.7 One ordinary fire blanket (SAP Material No 1000124807) shall be

provided for each control building and switchgear building on manned
platforms.
7.1.8 A list of all life safety equipment and locations thereof shall be
provided, to be included in the Project Proposal.
7.2 Self-contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) shall be supplied in capacity,

numbers and locations approved by the Proponent Operating Department and
Loss Prevention.
Page 30 of 31

Revision Summary
3 July 2012 Revised the “Next Planned Update”. Reaffirmed the content of the document, and
reissued with minor revision.
27 November 2016 Major revision. Included additional international standard references. Editorial and
organization revisions, included deep water provisions, blast evaluations, PE review of fire
water designs, chlorination of entire firewater system periodically, and SAP numbers for
life safety equipment. This revision clarifies certification requirements for life saving
appliances, safety arrangements for helicopter fueling hoses, addresses need for gas
detection from toxic gas dispersions, blast/explosion evaluations, updates fire rated
material requirements for offshore buildings, and captures lessons learned from recent fire
water upgrade projects.
2 July 2019 Editorial revision, to reflect content confirmation requirement.
Page 31 of 31


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Engineering Standard

SAES-B-009 2 July 2019

Previous Issue: 27 November 2016 Next Planned Update: 27 November 2021

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

2 Conflicts and Deviations

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

SAES-B-055 Plant layout

Saudi Aramco Standard Drawing

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

SAER-6119 Guidelines for Removal or Replacement of Halon

3.2 Industry Standards Codes and Standards

American Petroleum Institute (API)

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

International Marine Organization (IMO)

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

NFPA 2001 Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems, 2015

Underwriter Laboratories (UL)

Electronic Fire Detection (EFD): Fire detection technologies based on sensing

Escape Capsule: Totally Enclosed Motor Propelled Survival Craft (TEMPSC).

Fire-hazardous Zone: Refer to SAES-B-006.

USCG: United States Coast Guard.

5 General Design Requirements

5.1 Layout, Spacing, and Access

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Unless otherwise stated herein, requirements in SAES-B-055 shall apply to

5.1.1 Control buildings or living quarters shall not be located on a platform

5.1.2 Accommodations platforms, tie-in platforms that are bridge-connected

5.1.4 Maintenance shops shall not be located in electrically classified areas.

5.1.5 Diesel engines shall be located in electrically unclassified areas and at

5.1.6 Diesel and slops tanks shall be constructed independent of tubulars,

5.1.7 Helidecks shall be located in an electrically unclassified area (except

5.1.8 Atmospheric exhausts from steam or combustion gas turbines, internal

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Atmospheric exhausts from incinerators may be routed to discharge at

Exhausts within 15 m (50 ft) horizontally of helidecks shall be

5.1.9 Vents which can discharge hydrocarbons shall terminate at least 3 m

5.1.10 Pump and compressor areas handling hydrocarbons shall not be

5.1.11 Platforms and flare structures shall not be enclosed.

5.1.12 Boat landings shall be arranged and equipped in accordance with

5.1.13 Handrails shall be provided per SAES-B-054.

5.1.13.2 Front edges of boat landings shall have no permanent

Cranes shall not be located in fire-hazardous zones (see 4.7.3).

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5.1.17 For purposes of this Standard, stairways, ladders, bridges, boat

5.1.18 At least four stairways/ladders shall be provided between each

d) Half-decks shall be connected to main decks by at least two stairways,

If the helideck is on a manned platform other than the accommodations

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

main deck (i.e., the deck which is bridge-connected to the

5.1.21 All pathways providing access to equipment platform ladders, controls,

5.1.21.1 Minimum effective width of bridge walkways and any

5.1.21.2 Minimum effective width of stairways shall be 760 mm,

5.1.22 Line-of-sight escape shall be incorporated into platform design and

5.2.1 Lighting for offshore platforms shall meet SAES-P-123.

On unmanned platforms, lighting is recommended. However, final

5.2.4 Emergency lighting of at least 55 (5 footcandles) lux at floor level shall

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5.3 Emergency Shutdown (ESD) Systems and Isolation Valves

5.3.1 Plot Limits Isolation